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Keeping Pacific communities healthy this winter

Keeping Pacific communities healthy this winter

  • 17 Jun 2025
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As the cooler months settle in, it’s more important than ever to take care of your health and the health of your community and loved ones.

Winter brings a higher risk of colds, flu, and other serious illnesses like whooping cough. These illnesses can spread quickly at home, work, school and within communities, but there are simple steps you can take to stay well.

Get vaccinated

Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family this winter. By staying up to date with vaccinations and taking care when you’re unwell, you help protect not just yourself, but your whole community.

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora recommends checking that you and your whānau are up to date with immunisations for:

  • Flu (influenza)
  • Whooping cough (pertussis)
  • COVID-19
  • Measles

You can book vaccinations online at Book My Vaccine, or call the Vaccination Healthline on 0800 28 29 26 to speak with a Pacific adviser (available Monday to Friday, 8:30am–5pm).

Vaccination information is also available in Gagana Samoa and Lea Faka-Tonga.

Where to find more health information

For more information or advice on your health:

  • Get advice online at info.health.nz or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 — available 24/7.
  • Visit your local pharmacy for advice on common illnesses and treatments. Some pharmacies also offer vaccinations.
  • Contact your GP for medical support for you and your family.
  • Use telehealth services if you can’t visit a doctor in person:
    • Book a phone or video appointment with a GP.
    • Call Ka Ora (0800 252 672) for after-hours support in rural areas.